[FM23] Another Island Life - Green Lion Pride - A Guernsey FC Youth Story

[Punch]

12 hours ago, shd34_216_42 said:

That makes more sense than the screenshot claim.

I'm guessing that they are going far beyond expanding to the minimum, given you have money, the club can borrow more money if necessary, and that you would likely get more than 12.5k in attendance, so you'll probably be ground sharing for a season or so.

I like the representation of island nations in the youth intake.

Hopefully we will find out soon enough 

 

I only added the (G) to the Guernsey natives recently, not that it was important to the save, but more for my own curiosity to see how many were in the team.

We have now dropped below 50% out of the Academy, but still have more than 50% in the first team.

[Jtomsett11]

Interesting to see if that high potential CB amounts to anything - his mental look great but his defensive attributes and pace are going to need to see significant improvement.

[Punch]

6 hours ago, Jtomsett11 said:

Interesting to see if that high potential CB amounts to anything - his mental look great but his defensive attributes and pace are going to need to see significant improvement.

A diamond in the rough perhaps.

If we can polish up some of those rough edges and raise some of those numbers you speak of, a very exciting prospect.

Time will tell I guess

[Punch]

 

APR 2040

 

We had the pressure on us to complete our chase for promotion and the title, and the boys responded in some style, putting together an undefeated month, conceding only one goal in the process.

Our FA Cup Semi Final was postponed due to Liverpool's European commitments, so we will now face them next month.

The win over Boro confirmed our promotion to the Premier League, while results going our way by the end of the day meant we would be going up as Champions.

 

Match Results

Spoiler

With the pressure of expectation beginning to mount, the boys ran riot of the hapless Boro, smashing home 5 goals, and keeping a clean sheet to boot.

 

When the final whistle blew, we knew we had done enough to conform promotion, and we will be a Premier League team next season.

 

The crowd hung around to await confirmation of other results, and when all the matches were finished, we were far enough in front that we can't be caught for the title.

We will be heading to the Premier League as Champions.

 

No title hang over as we get straight back to business, thrashing Wigan.

With the title won, we used the chance to give some of the kids with high expectations a run, and they did not disappoint.

 

A thumping win, or at least it should have been, as we put 11 on target, an xG of over 4, but only came away with one early goal to show for it.

At least our defence hung tight, keeping another clean sheet so we took the three points.

 

A tight battle although the visitors probably had the better of the match.

A great goalkeeping display kept them scoreless though as we hung on to share the points.

 

We get back to our attacking best as we put two goals passed Derby in each half to come away with a thumping win.

The hosts created as many chances as we did, but our defence done a better job of shutting them down, enabling us to take the win.

 

A pretty even battle in front of a sell out at the Green Lions Den as we get the better of Norwich.

A goal in each half, and a clean sheet were enough to get the job done.

 

 

We have smashed through the 100 goal and 100 point barriers on our way to confirming both promotion and the Title.

We also still hold the best defensive record in the League.

 

The stories of new ownership have come back again, with it now appearing that the Chairman is now more open to the prospect of selling the club.

 

A final League game before we face Liverpool in the FA Cup Semi Final.

[erik45]

Bravo! 

Congratulations on the promotion and the title!! As your team is flying high at the moment, I'm eager to see what they can do against Pool in the cup 

[Punch]

43 minutes ago, erik45 said:

Bravo! 

Congratulations on the promotion and the title!! As your team is flying high at the moment, I'm eager to see what they can do against Pool in the cup 

Thank you!

Going to be a massive step up in quality

[Stuniverse]

6 hours ago, Punch said:

We have smashed through the 100 goal and 100 point barriers on our way to confirming both promotion and the Title.

We also still hold the best defensive record in the League.

What an amazing season.

And now you’ve done it, @Punch - Guernsey are in the BIG TIME!

Congratulations  and Good Luck 🍀⚽️🤞 next season.

[Punch]

8 minutes ago, Stuniverse said:

What an amazing season.

And now you’ve done it, @Punch - Guernsey are in the BIG TIME!

Congratulations  and Good Luck 🍀⚽️🤞 next season.

Thank you!

A big step up, and exciting times ahead.

[Punch]

 

MAY 2040

We finish the season out in style with a thumping win over the relegated Rochdale, before we go down in a decent performance at Wembley, but ultimately Liverpool were too strong for us.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

Party time to finish the season as Finnegan runs riot, rounding out the season with a hat-trick, while youngster Nix, no relation to me apparently, scores his first senior goal.

 

A packed Wembley where Liverpool, while always comfortable, we made to work for their victory.

We were out gunned, and out classed, but certainly not embarrassed, with a career highlight for Adams, scoring a goal at Wembley.

 

 

 

In the end we ran away with it, romping home by 26 points.

While it was a tight battle for the minor placings, and in the end Peterborough upset the apple cart to win the final promotion place.

 

The Liverpool game marked my 1,000th in charge of the Green Lions, and we managed to continue my run of poor results in milestone games, losing another one.

 

Last month he was apparently open to the take over, now he is rubbishing them. The rumour wheel continues to spin.

 

Our Youth Category has been upgraded to 2, meaning a further increase in costs, but hopefully helping us to continue to produce young stars to keep the club building.

 

We will be playing away next season, as expected, our home stadium needs some improvements, so we will be using Fratton Park at Portsmouth.

 

We are increasing the stadium capacity to a bit over 16k, which will cover the EPL requirement of 12.5k.

 

An important milestone as we are able to clear the debts incurred in the building of the new stadium, and fund the current expansion.

This will result in us entering the Premier League clear of debt, so we can concentrate all our efforts in the remaining improvements to keep us there.

 

A good year financially means we are hit with a decent tax bill for the upcoming season.

 

 

Up next...we review the season that was.

[shd34_216_42]

See, even the game wants everything to be all about islands.

Being debt-free is a real accomplishment at that level.

[Punch]

15 minutes ago, shd34_216_42 said:

See, even the game wants everything to be all about islands.

Being debt-free is a real accomplishment at that level.

It's a big step to be able to be debt free heading into the Premier League.

As we grow, we will need to expand the stadium in future, so having the cash in hand will be better than needing to take out more loans.

Also gives us the chance to offer bigger wages as needed to fight off advances from other clubs.

[Punch]

 

2039-2040 Season Review

[Punch]

 

2039-2040 Season Review - Stats

 

Goalkeepers

 

 

Defenders

 

Midfielders

 

Forwards

A massive 43 goals from Finnegan, 39 in the League, was a massive part of our success.

 

 

[Punch]

 

2039-2040 Season Review - Attribute Scores

 

That time of season where we get to check how the players are going in terms of their attribute scores.

 

Goalkeepers

With the departure of Arani, Hamilton took over as our number 1, and he improved to become our number one ranked keeper in terms of attributes as well.

Improvements all around give us some quality choices should form or injury strike.

 

Defenders

Minor improvements through the defensive line result in plenty of quality choices to fill the rotation.

 

Midfielders

One of our strongest areas as we have plenty of choices to fill the rotation.

 

Forwards

Ironically our weakest area, considering the number of goals we scored this season, although we do have plenty of solid options.

 

Best Squad

The squad continues develop nicely, although we will still probably be one of the weakest teams in the EPL next season.

 

While we have the same average age, our average score increased by a full point. We keep moving forwards.

[TelcontarTargaryen]

Next stop, Prem.

[Punch]

20 hours ago, TelcontarTargaryen said:

Next stop, Prem.

Get ready Big 6, the Green Lions are coming for you 

[Punch]

 

JUN 2040 - Off Season Things

 

Internationals

Plenty of players on International duty over the off season, and we have our first England International, as Chambers earns his first Cap.

He also becomes our 19th Senior International.

 

Transfers

Hollis had become a reserve player, and did not feature a lot last season, so we accept the decent offer, and send him on his way for more first team football.

 

Ayovi was never going to make the first team, so when Preston came with this crazy offer, it was a no brainer to take the easy money.

 

Like Ayovi, McCarron was not going to make first team, so we make a little money, with the potential for more further down the track.

 

Showing the benefit of the sell on clauses, we are set to receive well over £20 million for Balogun's transfer.

While we will miss out on the 'per League appearance' part of our deal with Liverpool, but it's more than made up for with this deal.

 

Season Preview

 

A massive start to the season as we host heavy weights Man U to kick off the season, before traveling to fellow promotion winners Peterborough.

 

All three promoted teams, including ourselves, are favourites to go straight back down, so we will have to upset the Bookies to stay up this season.

 

The sell on clause sets us into a great financial position to start the season.

 

This will certainly help to keep us financially healthy.

 

With the later start to the EPL season, we have plenty of time for pre-season friendlies before the season kicks off in mid-August.

[Punch]

 

JUL 2040

A solid start to friendly season, as we still know our way to goal, slamming in 35 goals and conceding only 1.

 

Internationals

A few players on International Duty, and Rooney became out 7th Senior International goal scorer.

 

The take over rumours continue, and apparently the Chairman is now interested.

 

Transfers

We moved on another youngster that was unlikely to make the grade.

A small payment, and a future clause in case there is any future sale.

 

Another youngster moved on, but we receive much more money, and plenty of future payments.

 

West Brom have absolutely stolen a player here, or someone at Tottenham has fallen asleep at the wheel.

His value at one point was over £70 million, so they have basically sold him for nothing.

 

We do however, get paid for Clapton's transfer to Fulham.

This will result in is playing against him.

 

It's been a while since a job offer, but Espanyol came knocking.

I turned it down, but this would have linked me up with former keeper Marcus Arani again.

 

Another sell on clause pay off puts us in an even better financial position.

 

We still have time for plenty of pre-season friendlies before the season proper kicks off.

[Punch]

 

AUG 2040

We finished off our pre season in good form, running through winning every match, before we finally became a Premier League team, before causing a huge shock, taking a point off Man U, in a game we probably should have won. We got the points in a tight battle against fellow promoted team Peterborough, and then rounded out the month, advancing in the League Cup.

 

Romario Finnegan also became the answer to the trivia question of who scored the first goal in the Premier League for Guernsey. An appropriate honour after scoring over 100 goals in our 4 seasons in the Championship.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

After all the build up, we are now a Premier League team as we made our debut with a tough ask against giants Man U.

They were coasting at half time, two goals up, and cruising towards an easy win.

Half time seemed to break their concentration though as we turned the match around, coming from behind to snatch a point with two late goals.

Considering we also managed to hit the posts on three occasions, the score could have ended up anything in this one.

Our debut at Fratton Park also resulted in a record crowd, beating the just shy of 11k record at the smaller Guernsey Stadium.

 

A match we were predicted to win against fellow promoted team Peterborough, and we did enough to earn our first ever win in the Premier League.

The hosts did make us work harder for the win than the stats suggest, as it was a pretty tight affair.

Happy with the result though as we meet expectations.

 

Being a Premier League team now means we get a free pass into the 2nd round where we met Barnet.

A heavily rotated team met expectations in getting the win to send us through.

 

A tough ask though as we are drawn away to Liverpool in the 3rd Round.

We will have to overturn a poor history against them if we want to repeat last years heroics of making the Semi Final.

 

 

We find ourselves higher up the table than expected, but it's way too early to ready anything into it yet.

 

Another upgrade completed.

 

The take over rumours are now being rubbished by the Chairman, so who knows what is going on there.

 

I am still being targeted by overseas clubs.

 

TV money makes a big difference as we turn a decent profit this month.

 

We smash our Season Ticket sales record in our temporary home.

 

We trail a long way behind in the revenue stakes.

 

A tougher month coming up.

[Punch]

 

AUG 2040 - Transfers

 

We got through the rest of the transfer window without selling any further players.

There are still plenty of sell on clauses in place.

 

We are so far behind the League here, it's almost laughable.

[Hootieleece]

you are doing amazing things on a shoestring budget.

 

[Punch]

3 hours ago, Hootieleece said:

you are doing amazing things on a shoestring budget.

 

A long way to go, but it’s been a positive start.

[Punch]

 

SEP 2040

A swift reality check as we go winless in the League, earning only a single point.

We did upset Liverpool though, to advance in the League Cup.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

While the hosts were comfortable, we did make them work for it, as both sides played pretty attacking football.

We grabbed a couple of goals, but conceding four at this level is just too many.

 

A lesson on how quickly it can turn around, as we had this one in the bag, but a lapse in concentration and we gave up two quick goals.

We still had some chances late in the game, but couldn't put it away.

 

A lesson in not taking our chances here as we dominate the game, but get nothing out of it.

We had a player sent off, but still looked the most likely to score, but we couldn't get the ball in the net.

The players were then evened up when they had one sent off, and we still looked the most likely, but got caught out committing too many forward, and it cost us the game.

 

The Hammers were just a class above in this one as the League leaders shut us down completely.

We created a few chances, but we couldn't get a single shot on target.

They scored early and late, but always looked comfortable showing us we have a lot to learn, very quickly.

 

An epic battle as we come from two goals down to level at Anfield.

Neither side could find a winner, so we went to penalties.

Our kids held their nerve and Mason came up with the big save as we send the heavy weights out of the Cup.

 

Another tough mach as we host Barnsley in Round 4.

 

 

We tumble down the table, now finding ourselves just 2 points above the relegation zone.

 

Stats

 

Goalkeepers

 

Defenders

 

Midfielders

 

Forwards

 

 

Internationals

Players on International Duty again this month, and we have our 21st Senior International as Jack Brown earns his first Cap for Wales.

 

 

We make an immediate impact on the player development table, coming up to 6th place with 39 players now representing in top Leagues.

 

Another list, another example of how far out of our League we are at this level at the moment.

 

We continue to grow the bank account.

 

A short month with another International break, and our League Cup 4th Round clash.

[Stuniverse]

On 12/02/2024 at 04:23, Punch said:

A swift reality check as we go winless in the League, earning only a single point.

Ouch! Welcome to the Premier League.

[Punch]

8 hours ago, Stuniverse said:

Ouch! Welcome to the Premier League.

Yep, a massive step up.

[Stuniverse]

10 hours ago, Punch said:

Yep, a massive step up.

I’ve probably missed it somewhere, what’s your Board’s expectation for this season?

[Punch]

15 hours ago, Stuniverse said:

I’ve probably missed it somewhere, what’s your Board’s expectation for this season?

Fight bravely against relegation, so they are not expecting miracles at least.

[Punch]

 

OCT 2040

We started the month with our 5th straight game without a win, before back to back wins for the first time in our short EPL career.

We also thumped Barnsley to advance in the League Cup.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

A lesson in not taking our chances here as we probably outplayed Blackburn, but had nothing to show for it.

We crated plenty of chances, but just could not get the ball in the net, where as the hosts took theirs, and came away with the points.

 

A record we could do without.

 

Villa attacked all day long but our defence held firm.

Finnegan got back to his goal scoring ways, smashing home a late winner.

 

We finally end the winless run.

 

A tight battle as we just get the better of Fulham.

Another late winner from Finnegan, who is slowly starting to find his goal scoring form at this level, and we collected all three points.

We are officially on a winning streak.

 

A completely dominant performance as we run riot against Barnsley.

Plenty of good performances, plenty of goals, and a clean sheet to send us through the next round.

 

We don't find out our opponent in the next round for a few more days yet.

 

 

We had dropped to 17th after the loss to Blackburn, but back to back wins sends us back up to the mid table.

 

Internationals

We had players on duty during the International break.

 

We have two players now in the England squad, striker Adam Chambers, and former player Julius Balogun, who was sold to Liverpool, but now plays for Hertha BSC.

 

The TV rights continue to prop up the bank account.

 

A small number of games, but we will be lucky to take any points next month.

[Punch]

 

NOV 2040

We knew this was going to be a tough month, and so it proved to be.

While we lost all three games, we were at least competitive in all of them.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

While we hit back almost immediately after their opener, the visitors dominated and always looked in control.

Newcastle always looked likely to score, and while we put in a mammoth defensive effort to keep them out, we were unable to prevent them from scoring a winner.

 

We played pretty well against the Gunners, almost getting something from this one.

We only conceded the one goal, but they also hit the woodwork a few times, so it could have been a lot worse.

Unfortunately we were not able to find the back of the net ourselves, going down for the second straight game.

 

After knocking Liverpool out of the League Cup, confidence was high for getting something out of this match.

The hosts had their best side back out in this one though and went two up by the break.

We fought them much harder in the second half, and gave them a bit of a fright late in the second half, but ultimately it was too little too late.

 

 

Three straight losses drops us to 16th, with just a 2 point gap to the relegation zone.

 

Internationals

Players on duty during the International break again, and Mark Kouzas becomes our 9th International scorer at Senior level.

 

Our first season in the Premier League and our Academy is now the leading producer of talent for the League.

 

We are also in 5th place for production of talent across the European Leagues.

 

We continue keeping our heads above water financially.

 

A crazy month coming up as we face seven League games, and a League Cup Quarter Final. Looks like another tough month of opposition as well.

[Hootieleece]

I know they are still losses but being competitive with Top 6 teams means you might get lucky and win some important points against them. It is more important to beat your relegation rivals in any case.

[Punch]

13 minutes ago, Hootieleece said:

I know they are still losses but being competitive with Top 6 teams means you might get lucky and win some important points against them. It is more important to beat your relegation rivals in any case.

I know there is a long way to go, but how important could that comeback point in our first game against Man U prove to be come the end of the season.

[Punch]

 

DEC 2040

A pretty insane month comes to an end, and we managed to come out of it pretty well in the end, as we scraped together two wins, three draws and two losses in the League, while we completed our second win of the month over Brentford to advance in the League Cup.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

We could almost call this a massive upset as we steal a point off Chelsea, despite them scoring both goals in the match.

A pretty impressive defensive performance in the second half managed to keep them out, despite plenty of pressure.

 

We held our own against Wolves as we played pretty well, and were possibly unlucky to only come away with a point.

Both teams had their chances and we scored a late equaliser to have to settle for a share of the points.

 

A strange game where we were down 0-2, and 1-2 at half time, we come out a different team in the second half.

Blasting 5 goals in our best 45 minute performance since joining the Premier League, and our first win for nearly two months.

 

We gave high flying City a run for their money, in a tightly contested affair.

Although to be fair, once they got their goal, they were happy to sit back and soak up the pressure, even though we did give them a few nervous moments.

 

We were soundly beaten by a much better team in this one.

They were simply too good for us, and the match was effectively over as a contest by half time, despite our late consolation effort.

 

A massive three points for us against the struggling Leicester, in what was a tightly contested match.

A single goal was all it took to take the win, as we scored on the stroke of half time, and managed to hang on.

 

Another lesson in not taking our chances as we dominated this one, but could not find a way past their keeper.

20 shots on goal, with 9 on target, compared to their 2 and 1, but we had to settle for a share of the points as we couldn't get the all important winner.

 

Our second win over Brentford this month and it was yet another high scoring affair, as both sides played highly attacking football.

We always seemed to have the game in control though as we romped our way into the Semi Finals.

 

We draw Tottenham, who we have lost both matches to, and since lost a League match as well.

 

 

We sit in 16th, just 4 point above the drop zone, although we do have one of the best for and against records in the bottom half of the table.

 

Stats

 

Goalkeepers

 

Defenders

 

Midfielders

 

Forwards

 

 

Youth Intake Preview

After a couple of years of mediocre intakes, this year seems to give us hope for a pretty spectacular intake.

A ratings in four different key positions is something to look forward to.

It will be very exciting to see what March brings for us.

 

With the transfer window just around the corner, we are now in a solid financial position, and won't need to look to sell players to keep the club afloat.

There will possibly be some sales to thin the ranks or move on players not required, but we at least won't be forced by the Board to sell important players.

 

Another massive month coming up with 5 League games, and 3 Cup games.

[Punch]

 

JAN 2041

A really tough month as we don't win any of our 4 League games, bow out of the League Cup, but we did manage to advance in the FA Cup.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

We were probably lucky to get away with a point here, especially playing the final half hour a man down.

Both sides had their chances, although we probably played better with 10, but we take the point on the road.

 

A tough one here as we were the better team for the majority of the match, but gave up a lazy goal, and two points in the process.

 

A tough break as we give up a late goal to lose a 6 pointer against a team at the bottom end of the table with us.

We were probably the better team, but struggled to hit the target.

 

It got worse as we copped a fine for too many yellow cards as well.

 

Another heart breaker against a team down with us as we concede deep into injury time to lose back to back games against low table opponents.

Even worse, we managed to hit the woodwork an astonishing 4 times, so it was a tough loss to take.

 

A tough run of results at the moment.

 

 

We were massive underdogs against the League leading Spurs, and they proved to be far too strong in this one.

A 3-6 overall result is probably a fair reflection of the overall games, and while we were not embarrassed, we were soundly beaten.

We bow out in the Semi Final for the 3rd consecutive season.

 

Our only win for the month as we come from behind to take solid win to send us through.

 

A tough draw as we are sent to Chelsea for the 4th Round.

 

 

We have dropped to 17th, just 2 points above relegation.

Although we have a massively better goal difference than those around us.

 

Records

We break the attendance and gate records in the League Cup Semi Final.

It will take a while to break these in our own stadium though.

 

Transfers

 

We got through the transfer window without selling any of our important players, although we did send a few players on their way in search of more playing time.

 

Both fringe players, we collect a decent payment, and there are some future clauses included which will see us collect more money down the track.

 

We receive an extra pay out as Manuel reaches 50 games for Betis.

A decent pay out that required no input from us.

 

A great month financially as we make a healthy profit.

 

A big month coming up, after we face Chelsea in the FA Cup, we face two important League games, against teams in the relegation zone, which are almost must win games, as we face four massively tough games after that.

 

[Stuniverse]

6 hours ago, Punch said:

We have dropped to 17th, just 2 points above relegation.

Ouch! The Premier League is a tough League when you are newly promoted.

6 hours ago, Punch said:

Although we have a massively better goal difference than those around us.

Hopefully that significantly better goal difference bodes well as you must be playing better football than those around you.

Leicester City and Peterborough United already have one foot through the trap door.

Good luck 🍀⚽️🤞

[Punch]

2 hours ago, Stuniverse said:

Ouch! The Premier League is a tough League when you are newly promoted.

Yep, it's been a big step up in quality.

But also to be fair, we are not being trounced by the opposition, and if we got a bit more luck with the ball going in off the woodwork, we'd have another 40 goals to our name

 

2 hours ago, Stuniverse said:

Leicester City and Peterborough United already have one foot through the trap door.

Hence why they are pretty much must win games, if we are any chance of staying up, we have to be able to beat those two next month.

[Punch]

 

FEB 2041

A stunning start to the month as we held Chelsea to a draw, before going down in a tight affair in the replay three days later.

We then managed two great performances to win the must-win games against the relegation zone teams, before facing the League leading Spurs, and both sides of Manchester in the space of 6 days.

We rounded out the month by coming from two down to steal a surprise, but much needed point off Newcastle.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

A must win game and we held our nerve, in an impressive defensive performance, not allowing the hosts a shot on target.

It took us a while to find the back of the net, but two goals in two minutes in the second half was enough to secure our first win in nearly two months.

 

 

While the visitors had won only one of their first 20 matches, they have been on a run lately, winning 3 of their last 4, including a massive upset knocking over Man United.

It was another must win game for us to keep ourselves out of the relegation zone and we put in a good performance at both ends of the pitch, to secure another valuable three points.

Back to back wins for just the second time this season.

 

The League leading Spurs were just dominant in this one, and they could have scored double figures, but for the amazing performance of our keeper Hamilton.

They finally got on the board after the hour, but we were so spent form our defensive efforts, that we were able to offer nothing going forward.

 

The first of our double header in Manchester, and we go down to the red side of town.

Despite two early goals, we did manage to hold them pretty well for the remainder of the match.

While we didn't create a lot of chances, we did give them a few nervous moments, without ever truly worrying them.

 

We made our mark in one regard I guess

 

We stay in Manchester to face the blue side of town this time, and this should have been a cricket score.

The hosts ran riot and had two by 20 minutes, and it should have been a lot more.

We give them a fright by scoring late, and it was again the heroics of Hamilton that kept the scoreline that close.

 

A shock result, and a much needed point as we caught Newcastle napping, and finally made a team pay for not taking their chances.

The hosts had two early, and could have scored more to really finish us off, but they got a bit relaxed, and we had leveled by the break.

Neither side were able to find a winner, but an important away point is nearly as good as a win for us.

 

In what was expected to be a walkover, we stunned the Blues by holding them to a scoreless draw.

They always seemed the more likely, but could not find a winner, while we created very few chances.

We did collect over £1 million for our share of the gate, so there was a positive.

 

We went back to Fratton three days later for the replay, and Chelsea were again expected to walk it in, but we made them earn it the hard way.

They created the better of the chances, but they didn't have it all their own way and we did provide them a few problems, before they finally scored the winner late.

An impressive performance against one of the top teams, to push them all the way.

We bow out in the 4th Round, not able to match our Quarter and Semi Final appearances of recent years, but we can still be pretty happy with the way we played.

We can now also concentrate on staying up in the League.

 

 

An important point against Newcastle sends us back above Southampton on goal difference, but a lot of clubs around us are also collecting points more regularly.

We still have to play matches against some of the top sides, and some of those around us, so it's not going to be an easy finish to the season.

 

Stats

 

Goalkeepers

 

Defenders

 

Midfielders

 

Forwards

 

 

Our Semi Final Replay broke our own Gate Record again.

 

The TV rights, and some big gates help us to another big month.

 

A must win against relegation zone Brentford before we face another three tough matches in a row.

[Punch]

 

MAR 2041

Our matches against Liverpool and Arsenal were postponed due to their FA Cup matches, it ended up being a short month match wise.

We got the job done in the must win against Brentford, before stealing a shock point off Chelsea.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

A cracking result, although it took us a while to get there.

Three late goals, three points, and no less than we deserved.

We get the job done in a must win game against a relegation battle team.

 

We pushed Chelsea all the way in the FA Cup, and did so again to take an important point in a game where they were massive favourites.

The hosts always looked the more likely to score, but we got the opener with a cracking strike from Garai.

The hosts hit back after the break, and we had to defend for our lives to prevent a winner, but we managed to hang on to secure the point.

 

 

We sit 15th, but are only one point from the relegation zone, although we do have a game or two in hand over our rivals.

There have been some strange happenings at the bottom of the table though, after Peterborough beat Man U last month, this month Brentford have beaten Liverpool, and Southampton knocked over Tottenham, making a four way battle for the final relegation slot.

 

Internationals

Players on International duty this month, with Chamberlain scoring his 3rd International goal.

 

We have four players listed in the NXGN this year, two in the top 10.

 

My first job interview for a while, as Newcastle come knocking.

 

We received payments for the two players sold in the recent transfer window as they have reached the 10 game threshold to trigger the extra payment clause.

 

We continue to grow the bank balance.

 

A big month coming up with some tough games as well.

The match against Southampton could determine our place in the Premier League or not next season.

 

Edited March 6 by Punch

[Punch]

MAR 2041 - Part 2

 

Youth Intake

 

The Class of 2041 has arrived with some really exciting prospects.

 

The star rating shows a few highly rated prospects at the top of the tree.

 

Some really good looking attribute scores at the top of the tree, and with plenty of room for improvement, they have the potential to be very important players in the future.

 

The Best of them

Spoiler

An exciting looking midfielder with massive potential. Plenty of numbers we can improve along the way here.

 

An exciting prospect up front, with good early signs in pace and finishing.

 

While he looks good up front, he looks better in the midfield, and while he may not be as good as McDaid, he has good potential.

 

Another quality striker, with massive potential, our forward stocks are looking good.

 

The team has unearthed yet another quality keeper, of which we have an abundance now, but this kid looks quality as well.

 

 

We add Bulgaria to the list of nations.

 

 

Overall an exciting intake, that while there is a lot of room for improvement, there is massive potential among them.

[Punch]

 

APR 2041

We knew it would be a tough month, but we performed pretty well, pushing Liverpool and Arsenal before falling short, taking a surprise point of Wolves, before a crazy game against Southampton which we came away with the three points in the must win match against relegation rivals.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

We were always up against it against the Reds, and we copped a lesson in quality finishing.

We created plenty of chances, but were not able to put them away, while the visitors were much more clinical, despite us giving them some nervous moments.

 

We put on a massive defensive performance, almost pulling off an unlikely victory before ultimately settling for an important point.

Wolves created plenty of chances but we were able to hold them at bay, even taking the lead, before we gave away a clumsy second half penalty allowing them to level.

 

We made the Gunners work really hard for it, and they done just enough to take the points.

We gave them a few scares, but ultimately were unable to find the net ourselves.

 

A crazy attacking game where both sides went for broke to gain the crucial three points.

The hosts probably played better, but our finishing was much better, putting the ball on target six times, and scoring from all of them.

 

 

 

Despite picking up 4 important points this month, and being 5 points clear of relegation, we are still not safe as yet.

 

 

The Board has agreed to upgrade both the Training and Youth Facilities.

I think this will be the last Training upgrade, while there may be one left I can do for the Youth.

 

We have straight away become one of the most profitable teams in the League.

 

Our upgrades send the bank backwards for the first time this season.

 

Three games remain in the season, and while we have a five point gap over relegation, we have a tough finish and it's still possible we gain no points from any of these games.

We are going to need to pull off at least one upset, or hope other results go our way to confirm our place in the Premier League next season.

[Hootieleece]

one more victory is all that is needed.......for safety! You can do it!

[Punch]

 

MAY 2041 - We're staying up!!!

 

With the pressure really on to produce something to keep us in the Premier League, our kids put together one of our best months since joining the League, causing a string of upsets, finishing the season with four unbeaten, to easily avoid relegation.

 

An important step, as prior to our last match of the season, we moved back into Guernsey Stadium, and were playing football on the island again.

 

Match Reports

Spoiler

A dominant performance as we upset Everton to take the points in what would be our final game at Fratton Park.

Two early goals rattled the visitors, and they were never really able to recover.

Despite the win, we were still not yet safe from relegation.

 

A massive result as we come from behind twice to take a surprise point off the Hammers.

Just when it looked like we had lost it, and everything would come to the final day, Finnegan scored the late penalty to secure the point, and in doing so, secured our place in the Premier League next season.

 

A full house sign went out in our return to Guernsey as we pulled off another upset to take the win in our homecoming.

It was a pretty tight affair, but another late goal secured the victory, which was the perfect way to round out the season.

 

A great finish to the season means we finish in 14th place, 8 points clear of the relegation zone.

We also ended up as the only team outside the European places with a positive goal difference.

 

There is speculation that I am in line for the Arsenal job, although no job offer has yet arrived.

 

The take over rumour mill is back in force again, which has pretty much been running on and off since we joined the Premier League.

 

Prize money, sponsorship, and a huge welcome home made for a great month financially, and a great season.

The Board have also given us a fairly big upgrade on the wage bill next season.

 

Being that we don't spend money on transfers, we should always make a profit here, we rank 3rd this season in transfer profit.

 

We have the lowest wage ratio in the League, spending barely anything by comparison.

 

After one game at home, the Board have made the decision to send us away again, by doing another stadium upgrade.

This upgrade will take us to nearly 25,000 seats, but it will be another long season of traveling for both our players, and fans.

 

Up next...time to review our first season as a Premier League team.

[Stuniverse]

4 hours ago, Punch said:

With the pressure really on to produce something to keep us in the Premier League, our kids put together one of our best months since joining the League, causing a string of upsets, finishing the season with four unbeaten, to easily avoid relegation.

Excellent, @Punch. Well done!

A 14th placed finish gives you a great platform to build on next season.

[Punch]

1 hour ago, Stuniverse said:

Excellent, @Punch. Well done!

A 14th placed finish gives you a great platform to build on next season.

Thanks!

As it turns out, we could have lost all three and survived, but to perform like that with the pressure on is very impressive.

Onward and upward…if we can ever move back home 

[Stuniverse]

11 minutes ago, Punch said:

Onward and upward…if we can ever move back home 

Sorry, @Punch I must have missed something... move back home?

[mannojunior]

Cracking season mate and one hell of an achievement to stay up! Finances are looking rosy and fingers crossed you'll actually play at home again soon 

[Sir_Liam]

Congratulations on staying up.

As a long time reader but first time poster on this thread I've enjoyed the journey and the progress your team has made.  I enjoy the posts showing the progress of your players at the end of each season too.

[shd34_216_42]

19 hours ago, Stuniverse said:

Sorry, @Punch I must have missed something... move back home?

Board wanted a bigger stadium, so off to Bournemouth where the team will have to figure out how to make it an island.

I look forward to the Caribbean tour once the team is established enough.

[Stuniverse]

3 hours ago, shd34_216_42 said:

Board wanted a bigger stadium, so off to Bournemouth where the team will have to figure out how to make it an island.

I look forward to the Caribbean tour once the team is established enough.

Thanks, @shd34_216_42 I had missed that.

That's a shame though, @Punch Guernsey no longer playing on Guernsey.

[Punch]

On 10/03/2024 at 20:04, Stuniverse said:

Sorry, @Punch I must have missed something... move back home?

As @shd34_216_42 said, we are in another temporary home next season, as the Board went straight into upgrading Guernsey Stadium again, which will push us up to nearly 25k capacity. Hopefully we will get to play a season at home after that. 

 

On 10/03/2024 at 20:37, mannojunior said:

Cracking season mate and one hell of an achievement to stay up! Finances are looking rosy and fingers crossed you'll actually play at home again soon 

Thank you! 

We are lucky with finances as we are so low on wages. As some of these players contracts come up, I am pretty certain that we will see the wages sky rocket over the next season or two.

 

On 11/03/2024 at 06:00, Sir_Liam said:

Congratulations on staying up.

As a long time reader but first time poster on this thread I've enjoyed the journey and the progress your team has made.  I enjoy the posts showing the progress of your players at the end of each season too.

Thanks mate! Glad to have you along for the ride. 

It’s been a long journey from level 9, and we had to fight hard to stay up this season. Hoping to keep improving so the end of the season isn’t as nerve racking next time around.

[Stuniverse]

7 hours ago, Punch said:

As @shd34_216_42 said, we are in another temporary home next season, as the Board went straight into upgrading Guernsey Stadium again, which will push us up to nearly 25k capacity. Hopefully we will get to play a season at home after that. 

 Good luck. Hope to see you back home in Guernsey SOON!